MUSIC, FASHION, FILM

Aidan Zamiri

25 July 2026

Joshua Magazzu

Charli XCX has released her highly anticipated eighth studio album, ‘Music, Fashion, Film.’ With this new project, XCX has boldly pivoted to a rock inspired sound that initially took many fans by surprise, myself included! Coming off of the ferocious energy of the 'brat' era, this shift seemed unexpected at first, but after listening to the full body of work, it now makes sense.

XCX’s decision to embrace a rock sound on ‘Music, Fashion, Film’ showcases her chameleon like approach to making music. The transition from the boundary pushing, electronic, hyper pop style of ‘brat’ to a guitar driven, dark, grungy rock landscape is both daring and refreshing. While some artists might have chosen to double down on familiar territory after a major success, Charli instead demonstrates her commitment to artistic growth and unpredictability. The rock influence is evident not just in the instrumentation: distorted guitars, live drums, and raw production, but also in the album’s attitude. The songs bristle with a sense of rebellion, echoing the spirit of classic punk and alternative acts, yet filtered through Charli’s distinctive pop sensibility.

The album’s concise runtime of just around 30 minutes adds to it’s impact, distilling her ideas into tight, punchy tracks. Within this brief but powerful tracklist, certain songs stand out for their unique qualities. "Card Declined" is perhaps the grungiest and most abrasive cut on the record, with gritty production and a raw, almost anarchic energy that feels deliberately antagonistic. In contrast, "Wink Wink" delivers an infectious chorus that exudes a fierce, nostalgic energy.

The album’s closing track, "No One Lasts Forever," is striking. Featuring the album’s sole feature by renowned director David Cronenberg, the song is deeply introspective and cinematic. Cronenberg’s presence adds a layer of surrealism, and Charli’s lyrics turn inward to contemplate the fleeting nature of human existence. It’s a beautifully realised way to end the record, offering a moment of reflection and emotional resonance that lingers long after the final note fades.

‘Music, Fashion, Film’ also highlights a different vocal delivery from XCX. She leans into a talk-like, almost spoken word cadence throughout much of the record. This decision has proven divisive, with some long time angels longing for the distorted autotune vocals of her previous work. However, the conversational style serves the project well: it brings a directness and intimacy to the lyrics. By stripping away some of her signature gloss, Charli invites us deeper into her artistically structured world, blurring the line between artist and narrator.

Ultimately, ‘Music, Fashion, Film’ is more than just a genre experiment or a temporary detour: it’s a statement of intent. With this album, Charli proves that reinvention can be both risky and rewarding. For those willing to embrace the unexpected, Charli’s latest offering is not only a quick listen, but a testament to her place as one of pop’s most daring innovators.

rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️